MUSCAT : The programme is a strategic initiative aimed at developing Omani expertise in energy auditing and supporting the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

It represents a key pillar in Oman’s efforts to achieve the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and its commitments under the Paris Climate Agreement. It aligns with international recommendations from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which emphasize the critical role of energy efficiency in reaching net-zero emissions targets.

Spanning six intensive weeks, the Kafa’a programme trains 50 Omani male and female participants to become Certified Energy Auditors (CEA), a globally recognized certification issued by the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE). The trainees, forming the program’s first batch, will undergo progressive training phases, beginning with theoretical foundations based on AHRA standards, followed by hands-on energy audits and culminating in advanced certification exam preparation.

His Excellency Eng. Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, described the programme as a strategic investment in human capital that will lay the groundwork for a new generation of national energy auditors. “Each graduate of this programme will be internationally certified, ready to support government, industry, and communities in improving energy efficiency, reducing operational costs, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions. This will significantly contribute to Oman’s sustainable development and net-zero neutrality journey,” he said.

His Excellency also emphasised the programme’s collaborative framework, highlighting the institutional integration between ministries and academia. Sultan Qaboos University, through its Sustainable Energy Research Centre, is responsible for academic oversight, content development, and logistical coordination. The Ministries of Energy and Minerals and Labour are providing strategic and operational support to ensure the program’s success.

Eng. Mohsen bin Sulaiman Al Jabri, Director General of the Oman Centre for Net Zero, stressed that the Kafa’a programme reinforces the Sultanate’s commitment to building local capabilities in energy auditing for high-energy-consuming buildings. “This initiative supports the national plan to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and reflects Oman’s leadership in sustainable development,” he said.

He added that the programme not only boosts energy efficiency across sectors but also reinforces Oman’s regional and global standing in climate action, economic resilience, and environmental stewardship.

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